What Are The Common Causes of Lower Back Pain in Women?

Common Causes of Lower Back Pain in Women​ - DOCS Urgent Care & Primary Care

Lower back pain is a common condition that affects people of all ages and genders, but it is more prevalent in women after the menopausal stage. In addition, they are also more likely to experience lower back pain due to factors such as pregnancy, endometriosis, and osteoporosis. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of lower back pain in women and how to prevent and treat it.

Anatomy of the Lower Back

The lower back, also known as the lumbar spine, is the lower portion of the spine that connects to the pelvis. It comprises five vertebrae, with discs in between that act as shock absorbers. The lower back also contains muscles, ligaments, and nerves. Understanding the anatomy of the lower back can help identify the causes of lower back pain.

Causes of Lower Back Pain in Women

Muscular Strain and Sprain

Lower back pain is a common problem for many women, especially those dealing with large amounts of physical strain and sprain. This pain is usually caused by overstretching or tearing muscles and ligaments around the lower back, leading to swelling and inflammation. To combat this urgent issue, it is best to visit urgent care in Fairfield, CT, where medical staff can provide the proper treatments to help alleviate some of the symptoms brought on by muscular strain and sprain. Aside from visiting urgent care centers, this can be resolved with rest, icing, and stretching exercises. Seeking professional advice from a reliable osteopath or physiotherapist can also be important when targeting lower back pain in women.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy can cause a great deal of abdominal, pelvic, and lower back pain for many women. The extra weight from the baby, coupled with changes in posture, can put greater strain on the spine leading to pain. While pregnancy-related lower back pain is common, it should not be taken lightly. Fortunately, reputable urgent care in Fairfield, CT, can provide medical help to ensure the woman and baby are safe.

Solutions include rest and exercise like stretching, yoga, or swimming; applying heat or ice; working with a physical therapist; and even getting a maternity belt to reduce pressure on the area. The most important thing, though, is that women seek their healthcare provider’s help when they start having any pain during their pregnancy, as it could indicate a bigger problem that needs tending to right away.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is an often excruciatingly painful disorder that affects women of reproductive age, causing lower back pain, infertility, and menstrual irregularities. This condition occurs when endometrial tissue, which lines the uterus, begins growing on other organs in the reproductive system. Often this excess tissue causes severe inflammation, localized pain, and disruption to the functioning of these organs.

Unfortunately, for sufferers in Fairfield, CT, urgent care for Endometriosis related lower back pain may be hard to come by; fortunately, however, urgent care options like the DOCS Urgent Care & Primary Care Fairfield are available, which can provide expert treatment and advice. Through lifestyle adjustments like limiting aerobics and contact sports and by taking prescription medications such as hormonal contraceptives or ibuprofen, women can both manage their symptoms more effectively as well as drastically reduce the chances of developing further health problems associated with Endometriosis.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a serious condition affecting many women worldwide and can lead to excruciating lower back pain. Because the bones lose their ability to bear weight, any form of movement can become difficult and, in extreme cases, cause fractures in the spine. Reputable urgent care in Fairfield, CT, is a great way for women to receive care if they suspect they may have osteoporosis, as an x-ray will allow doctors to diagnose the condition and prescribe treatment options tailored for each patient.

Since this condition weakens bones, urgent preventive measures and treatments need to be taken seriously; exercises such as yoga, tai-chi, or even simply taking a walk can help strengthen bones and reduce pain. Additionally, supplementing with Vitamin D and calcium is beneficial, along with reducing the intake of salt or caffeine, which are known to deplete healthy levels of nutrients needed for strong bones. Ultimately, working with urgent care in Fairfield, CT, can help women recognize osteoporosis early on, giving them the best chance of getting ahead of this notoriously dangerous condition.

Herniated Disc

Herniated Disc​ - DOCS Urgent Care & Primary Care

Women are particularly susceptible to herniated disk pain in their lower back. This is due to the fact that women have more flexible ligaments than men, which can cause strain and damage to the soft discs of the spine. A herniated disc occurs when a chink in the wall of an intervertebral disc allows some of its pulpy core material to escape and press on a nearby nerve root or spinal cord.

The most common symptom is lower back pain radiating to the buttocks, hips, and legs. Treatment of this type of back pain begins with non-surgical methods, such as physical therapy and medications for easing pain and inflammation. Core strengthening exercises will help reduce pressure on the weakened disc and improve stability and balance. Additionally, there are certain postural modifications that can help alleviate discomfort without needing strong medications. It is important for women who experience lower back pain due to herniated discs to listen to their bodies and seek medical advice from trusted urgent care in Fairfield, CT, if necessary.

Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes physical and emotional pain in women, including lower back pain. It is believed that lower back pain associated with fibromyalgia results from increased sensitivity of the nervous system to pressure and touch stimuli. Women who suffer from this condition experience more intense sensations of pain when their muscles are pressurized, leading to aches and discomfort in the back area.

Fortunately, there are several treatments available for lower back pain caused by fibromyalgia which can include therapeutic massages, stretching exercises, relaxation techniques, activity modification, physical therapy, and certain medications. Of course, each woman will respond differently to various treatments, so it’s best to consult your local urgent care in Fairfield for a more informed decision.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition that causes lower back pain in women due to joint swelling and inflammation. Generally, it affects the spine and other painfully sensitive areas around the body. People who suffer from arthritis may experience fatigue, stiffness, swelling, decreased range of motion, sharp pains, muscle aches, and cramps.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for this condition, but there are some treatments available to help ease the symptoms. These include taking regular medications, exercising regularly to build strength and flexibility in your joints, applying heat or cold therapy to painful muscles and joints, having regular massage therapy sessions to relax tense muscles, and attending pain management classes which can teach you how to manage daily activities without causing further inflammation. Additionally, getting enough quality rest is essential for recovery and reducing stress levels which can worsen symptoms of arthritis.

Urinary Tract Infection

Women frequently experience lower back pain due to kidney stones, cystitis, and other urinary tract infections (UTIs). In most cases, the root cause of back pain is inflammation or irritation from pressure caused by the infection. Research has indicated that the relationship between UTI and lower back pain is linked to a woman’s anatomy and the presence of hormones.

Furthermore, studies have shown that women are more likely to suffer from UTIs due to their shorter urethra, which can make it easier for bacteria to enter the bladder. Additionally, hormonal changes can also affect women’s bladders and lead to an increased risk of infection. To reduce discomfort and treat lower back pain stemming from a UTI, medical professionals recommend drinking plenty of water to flush out toxins in the body and urinating often to promote good bladder health. Taking a daily probiotic supplement can help restore the natural balance in your body’s bacteria levels, while cranberry extract products may help inhibit bacterial growth in the urinary tract system.

Risk Factors Of Lower Back Pain

Age

As people age, the risk of developing lower back pain increases. This is because the discs in the spine lose water content and become less flexible, which can lead to tears or ruptures in the disc. Bone density also decreases, which can increase the risk of fractures.

Obesity

Carrying excess weight can put additional pressure on the spine, which can lead to lower back pain. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can help reduce the risk of developing lower back pain.

Sedentary Lifestyle

Risk Factors Of Lower Back Pain​​ - DOCS Urgent Care & Primary Care

Sitting for prolonged periods can cause muscle imbalances and strain the lower back. Regular exercise and stretching can help alleviate lower back pain.

Genetics

Some people may be genetically predisposed to developing lower back pain. If other members of your family have a history of lower back pain, you may be at an increased risk.

Psychological Factors

Stress, anxiety, and depression can all contribute to lower back pain. These psychological factors can cause muscle tension and increase pain sensitivity.

Prevention

Exercise

Regular exercise can help strengthen the muscles in the lower back, which can reduce the risk of injury. Low-impact exercises, such as swimming and walking, can also help improve flexibility and reduce pain.

Proper Posture

Maintaining good posture can help reduce strain on the lower back. This involves sitting with the back straight and shoulders back and standing with the knees slightly bent and weight evenly distributed.

Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the strain on the lower back. Eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly can help manage weight.

Proper Lifting Technique

Lifting heavy objects improperly can put a strain on the lower back. Proper lifting technique involves bending the knees and keeping the back straight.

Ergonomic Adjustments

Adjusting your work environment to reduce strain on the lower back can also help prevent lower back pain. This may involve using an ergonomic chair or keyboard, or adjusting the height of your work surface.

Stress Management

Managing stress can help alleviate muscle tension and reduce pain sensitivity. This may involve practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation.

Conclusion

lower back pain consultation​​ - DOCS Urgent Care & Primary Care

Lower back pain can be a debilitating condition that affects women more frequently than men. Understanding the common causes of lower back pain in women can help identify the best course of treatment.

If you’re experiencing severe lower back pain, it’s important to seek medical attention urgently. If you’re located in Fairfield, CT, urgent care clinics, such as the DOCS Urgent Care & Primary Care Fairfield, are available to help you at any time. By following the prevention strategies outlined in this blog post, you can help reduce the risk of developing lower back pain and improve your overall quality of life.

Contact DOCS Urgent Care & Primary Care Fairfield today for your lower back pain consultation!

Notice

During this surge in COVID-19 cases, our primary focus is meeting the high demand for tests, and we are seeing higher than usual wait times. This means we are unable to answer most phone calls. Please know that our teams are working very hard during this time to care for as many patients as safely as possible. Please click the button below for answers to common questions. We appreciate your understanding.